All the Single...Moms

Soni's been in South Africa the last two weeks. She gets home this Sunday. Whit and I, although missing her terribly, were a little relieved to have an excuse to take some time off Mercy River and devote our energy to our families. I had big plans-crafting, a family vacay to St. George, major Spring cleaning, maybe a trip to Ikea...

Then-THE BACK PROBLEM HIT.

While on the afore mentioned vacation this last weekend, my husband's back decided to cause some issues. He's had back problems off and on for the last 5 years, but this was the worst it had ever been. Intense pain was shooting down his left side, leaving him unable to walk or even sit. I spent half my vacation in the Emergency Room, running back and forth to Walgreens for medication, and then keeping my two kids busy while trying to do everything I could to make him comfortable. His pain hasn't let up this whole week! Today he had a shot in the middle of his back to hopefully solve the problem, but it could take 3-5 additional days before he'll be able to walk again. As a result my poor husband is confined to our bed, barely able to stand long enough to get in a 2 minute shower.

So! This week I've traded my dreams of craft projects, Ikea trips, and organizing for the single mom role. All cooking, child care duties, cleaning, and nursing my hubby have fallen to me. I'm sure some of you are reading this thinking, "Big Whoop! I've done that and worse!" You're probably right. But I wanted to say, I have a such a respect for single moms, or even mommies who have kids and also take care of another adult family member. And when you throw in a job with that! I don't know how you do it, or where you get your strength. But I have an assignment for you.

Stand in front of a mirror. Are you there? Now, look at your reflection and say, "I.AM.AWESOME. No really, I am a full-blown rockstar. I do amazing things."

Did you say it? Do you honestly know how amazing you are? This week I've had moments when I was almost too busy to read to my little girl, or almost too tired to read our scriptures, or in such a hurry I almost forgot to bless our meal. And each time I gather up my strength, take a deep breath, and think about all the single moms doing the same thing. You women have given me strength this week.

I know my situation isn't permanent, so I hope I don't come across as thinking I know what any of you go through. All I want to say is, thank you for your example. You are a true life hero.